Our Scripture reading today is Luke 5:27-28, "And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed him."
Levi (also known as Matthew) was a tax collector by trade. He would have been despised by his Jewish family and friends. Tax collectors were working for the Roman government. The worst part was these tax collectors were allowed to keep whatever funds they collected over and above what the Roman government required. Let's just say the love of money drove them to over tax their own people. “When a Jew entered the customs service he was regarded as an outcast from society: he was disqualified as a judge or a witness in a court session, was excommunicated from the synagogue, and in the eyes of the community his disgrace extended to his family.” (Lane)
This calling by Jesus must have come as a great surprise to everyone including Matthew. Jesus loved Matthew and he responded to that love by leaving what would have been a lucrative business. Unlike the fisherman who Jesus called, there would be no way for Matthew to fall back on his business. What is Jesus asking us to leave and follow Him more fully? It may not be a secular job, but it could be. Our hearts must be totally surrendered to His will for our lives. Is there something in your life that is keeping you from being faithful to church? Is there something in your life that is keeping you from doing any service for the Lord? Ask the Lord to reveal it to you and be willing to forsake all and follow Him. He loves you and has a purpose for your life.